Statement of GPH Panel Chair Marvic Leonen

In the quest for a just and lasting peace in Mindanao, government agrees that there is a need for 'genuine autonomy' which the current ARMM has not delivered. As of the last round of talks between the government and the MILF, details of such autonomy is still being discussed.

As was directed by the President from the beginning, this government works within the flexibilities of the Constitution and within the parameters of national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

At the same time, while government is engaged in negotiations with the MILF, it pushes for inclusivity to acknowledge all stakeholders within the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to define goals, articulate interests and agree on common courses of action.

Government will continue its consultations with all constituents affected. To date about 65 of these consultations have already taken place.#